Management staff at the game in Croatia between the club's Elite Development Squad and HNK Rijeka withdrew the team from play after Seko Fofana was apparently targeted by an opposition player.

The Premier League champions confirmed they are investigating ahead of potentially taking the matter further.

"Manchester City's EDS U21 game with HNK Rijeka has today been cancelled due to an alleged incident of racial abuse toward the Club's young midfielder, Seko Fofana by a member of the opposing team," read a statement.

"Following an alleged incident in the latter stages of the first half of the game, being played in Novigrad, Croatia, a decision was taken by the management staff to withdraw the City team from the field of play and cancel the game.

"Club representatives in Croatia and in Manchester are liaising with officials, the match organisers and the Croatian Football Association to pursue this matter further."

HNK Rijeka, however, appear to have distanced themselves from speculation that one of their players made racist comments towards Fofana.

A statement on their website read: "Manchester City coach Patrick Vieira entered the field, something was discussed with the referee, and then to the amazement of a well-filled stadium he took his team off the pitch. What are the reasons? They are known only to him."

France Under-19 international Fofana joined City from Ligue 1 side FC Lorient in January 2013.